Systems and methods for sleeping bag with protective material

ABSTRACT

A repellent sleeping bag constructed from a protective material, the repellent sleeping bag having: a main body; and a plurality of seams; the protective material having a plurality of layers joined together via bias tape, the plurality of layers having: a first net layer; a second net layer; and a three-dimensional mesh layer between the first net layer and the second net layer, the three-dimensional mesh layer having a first mesh sheet and a second mesh sheet raised to a first height above the first mesh sheet; wherein the first mesh sheet and the second mesh sheet are associated together via a plurality of compressible elements; wherein the bias tape provided at each seam of the plurality of seams is sewn onto the first net layer, the three-dimensional mesh layer, and the second net layer.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention

The invention relates generally to methods of pest repellent and moreparticularly to a sleeping bag constructed from a protective materialwhich can protect a user from small invertebrates or other pests withoutthe use of harmful chemicals.

2. Description of the Related Art

Many people may expose themselves daily to a number of diseases, such asZika, rabies, malaria, and so on, via the vectors of such diseases,which may include small animals and invertebrates. The risk of exposureto diseases transmitted by insects or other vectors can be high in areaswith warm to hot climates. Thus, many people who spend time outsideand/or enjoy outdoor activities can be at a high risk of contractingsuch diseases. Some people may need to sleep outdoors for recreation,work, or other similar reasons, and may be exposed to disease-carryingpests during the night. While sleeping, these people may be unable todetect and ward off the pests.

Harsh chemical repellents currently on the market for repellingdisease-carrying animals and insects can pose several problems, such asspecifically targeting a certain type of pest and thus being unable torepel all types of pests. Chemical repellents can become expensivebecause they can decrease in efficacy after a period of time afterinitial application and must be reapplied. This can require a user tofrequently repurchase the repellent, which can be a strain on finances,as well as resources used to manufacture the product. Additionally, auser may not be aware that the effectiveness of a chemical repellent hasdiminished or disappeared, during which time a pest could bite andinfect the user with a disease. Chemical repellents may not be effectiveunderwater or against small animals. Chemical repellents can be anirritant or an allergen to some people, rendering them unusable for suchpeople, or may have adverse side effects or health risks on some users.Additionally, physical barrier repellents as known in the art may alsopose several problems. As an example, a physical barrier can be in theform of netting or mesh worn around the face or placed around a bed atnight. However, thick netting may be heavy and inconvenient to transportto the outdoor regions where the protection from pets is needed. Thickernetting may also cause air flow problems to a user, which can beparticularly dangerous for a user who is sleeping. Thinner, morebreathable netting may also pose problems because they may not providesufficient protection from pests. Thinner nets can be torn or damagedeasily, or, a net that is too thin may not provide a barrier between auser and a pest, which could still reach a user's skin through the holesor mesh of a net barrier. Thus, there is a need for a solution to theseproblems.

The aspects or the problems and the associated solutions presented inthis section could be or could have been pursued; they are notnecessarily approaches that have been previously conceived or pursued.Therefore, unless otherwise indicated, it should not be assumed that anyof the approaches presented in this section qualify as prior art merelyby virtue of their presence in this section of the application.

BRIEF INVENTION SUMMARY

This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in asimplified form that are further described below in the DetailedDescription. This Summary is not intended to identify key aspects oressential aspects of the claimed subject matter. Moreover, this Summaryis not intended for use as an aid in determining the scope of theclaimed subject matter.

In an aspect, a protective, repellent sleeping bag is provided, therepellent sleeping bag being constructed from a layered protectivematerial. The layered protective material may have three layers, whichmay be a three-dimensional mesh layer in between two mesh nettinglayers. The three-dimensional mesh layer may raise one of the mesh netlayers to a height above the user's skin when the sleeping bag is wornaround a user. The internal-facing mesh net layer may provide comfortand protection to the user such that the user's skin does not come intocontact with the three-dimensional mesh layer. Thus, an advantage isthat the protective material can help to minimize or reduce the risk ofdiseases transmitted by small animals, invertebrates, and other pests byproviding a physical barrier between the user and the harmful pests.Another advantage is that the protective, repellent sleeping bag maycover all parts of user's body while the user is sleeping, such thatexposure to pests or other harmful materials such as irritants orharmful plants can be reduced. Another advantage is that the elasticityof the protective material may provide a degree of shock absorbance,thus reducing harm or discomfort to the user, particularly when the bagis placed on uneven terrain. Another advantage may be that the thicknessof the mesh layer may help to prevent any pests, plants, irritants, orother harmful objects from physically reaching the skin of the user.Another advantage may be that the first net layer may provide therepellent suit with the appearance of typical or standard fabric asknown in the art, which may improve the ease of use of the repellentsleeping bag to the user. Another advantage may be that the breathableproperties of the protective material may ensure that the user does notbecome too warm while inside of the repellent sleeping bag. Anotheradvantage may be that the panel may provide additional breathability andvisibility to the user inside of the repellent sleeping bag.

In another aspect, a repellent sleeping bag constructed from a firstprotective material and a second protective material is provided, therepellent sleeping bag comprising: a main body having: a front surface;a rear surface; a left side; a right side; a top end having a roundedshape; a bottom end having a flat shape; and a sleeping bag outer edgehaving a closure; wherein the main body defines an interior space; apanel within the front surface at the top end; a plurality of seamsconnecting the front surface to the rear surface, the sleeping bag outeredge to the closure, and the panel to the front surface; bias tape atthe plurality of seams; and thread sewing the bias tape to the pluralityof seams; wherein the main body is constructed from the first protectivematerial, and the panel is constructed from the second protectivematerial; the first protective material comprising: a plurality oflayers; and a plurality of outer edges; the plurality of layers beingbreathable, and being joined together via the bias tape along theplurality of outer edges, and the plurality of layers comprising: afirst net layer; a second net layer; and a three-dimensional mesh layerbetween the first net layer and the second net layer, thethree-dimensional mesh layer comprising a first mesh sheet and a secondmesh sheet raised to a first height above the first mesh sheet; whereinthe first mesh sheet and the second mesh sheet are associated togethervia a plurality of compressible elements such that a force exerted onthe second mesh sheet causes the second mesh sheet to be pressed towardsthe first mesh sheet at a second height smaller than the first height;the second protective material comprising: the first net layer; and aplurality of second protective material outer edges; wherein theplurality of seams occur on biases of each layer of the first protectivematerial and the second protective material; wherein the bias tapeprovided at each seam of the plurality of seams is sewn onto the firstprotective material or the second protective material, such that thebias tape is bound to each layer of the plurality of layers or the firstnet layer via the thread passing through the bias tape and each layer ofthe plurality of layers of the first protective material or the firstnet layer of the second protective material, and such that the bias tapejoins a first portion of an outer edge of the plurality of outer edgesto a second portion of an outer edge of the plurality of outer edges;and such that the bias tape joins the plurality of second protectivematerial outer edges to the front surface. Thus, again, an advantage isthat the protective material can help to minimize or reduce the risk ofdiseases transmitted by small animals, invertebrates, and other pests byproviding a physical barrier between the user and the harmful pests.Another advantage is that the protective, repellent sleeping bag maycover all parts of user's body while the user is sleeping, such thatexposure to pests or other harmful materials such as irritants orharmful plants can be reduced. Another advantage is that the elasticityof the protective material may provide a degree of shock absorbance,thus reducing harm or discomfort to the user, particularly when the bagis placed on uneven terrain. Another advantage may be that the thicknessof the mesh layer may help to prevent any pests, plants, irritants, orother harmful objects from physically reaching the skin of the user.Another advantage may be that the first net layer may provide therepellent suit with the appearance of typical or standard fabric asknown in the art, which may improve the ease of use of the repellentsleeping bag to the user. Another advantage may be that the breathableproperties of the protective material may ensure that the user does notbecome too warm while inside of the repellent sleeping bag. Anotheradvantage may be that the panel may provide additional breathability andvisibility to the user inside of the repellent sleeping bag.

In another aspect, a repellent sleeping bag constructed from aprotective material is provided, the repellent sleeping bag comprising:a main body having: a front surface; a rear surface; a left side; aright side; a top end; a bottom end having a flat shape; and a sleepingbag outer edge having a closure; wherein the main body defines aninterior space; a plurality of seams connecting the front surface to therear surface, and the sleeping bag outer edge to the closure; bias tapeat the plurality of seams; and thread sewing the bias tape to theplurality of seams; wherein the main body is constructed from theprotective material; the protective material comprising: a plurality oflayers; and a plurality of outer edges; the plurality of layers beingbreathable, and being joined together via the bias tape along theplurality of outer edges, and the plurality of layers comprising: afirst net layer; a second net layer; and a three-dimensional mesh layerbetween the first net layer and the second net layer, thethree-dimensional mesh layer comprising a first mesh sheet and a secondmesh sheet raised to a first height above the first mesh sheet; whereinthe first mesh sheet and the second mesh sheet are associated togethervia a plurality of compressible elements such that a force exerted onthe second mesh sheet causes the second mesh sheet to be pressed towardsthe first mesh sheet at a second height smaller than the first height;wherein the bias tape provided at each seam of the plurality of seams issewn onto the protective material, such that the bias tape is bound toeach layer of the plurality of layers via the thread passing through thebias tape and each layer of the plurality of layers, and such that thebias tape joins a first portion of an outer edge of the plurality ofouter edges to a second portion of an outer edge of the plurality ofouter edges. Thus, again, an advantage is that the protective materialcan help to minimize or reduce the risk of diseases transmitted by smallanimals, invertebrates, and other pests by providing a physical barrierbetween the user and the harmful pests. Another advantage is that theprotective, repellent sleeping bag may cover all parts of user's bodywhile the user is sleeping, such that exposure to pests or other harmfulmaterials such as irritants or harmful plants can be reduced. Anotheradvantage is that the elasticity of the protective material may providea degree of shock absorbance, thus reducing harm or discomfort to theuser, particularly when the bag is placed on uneven terrain. Anotheradvantage may be that the thickness of the mesh layer may help toprevent any pests, plants, irritants, or other harmful objects fromphysically reaching the skin of the user. Another advantage may be thatthe first net layer may provide the repellent suit with the appearanceof typical or standard fabric as known in the art, which may improve theease of use of the repellent sleeping bag to the user. Another advantagemay be that the breathable properties of the protective material mayensure that the user does not become too warm while inside of therepellent sleeping bag. Another advantage may be that the panel mayprovide additional breathability and visibility to the user inside ofthe repellent sleeping bag.

In another aspect, a method of making a repellent sleeping bagconstructed from a protective material is provided, the repellentsleeping bag comprising: a main body having: a front surface; a rearsurface; a left side; a right side; a top end; a bottom end having aflat shape; and a sleeping bag outer edge having a closure; wherein themain body defines an interior space; a plurality of seams connecting thefront surface to the rear surface, and the sleeping bag outer edge tothe closure; bias tape at the plurality of seams; and thread sewing thebias tape to the plurality of seams; wherein the main body isconstructed from the protective material; the protective materialcomprising: a plurality of layers; and a plurality of outer edges; theplurality of layers being breathable, and being joined together via thebias tape along the plurality of outer edges, and the plurality oflayers comprising: a first net layer; a second net layer; and athree-dimensional mesh layer between the first net layer and the secondnet layer, the three-dimensional mesh layer comprising a first meshsheet and a second mesh sheet raised to a first height above the firstmesh sheet; wherein the first mesh sheet and the second mesh sheet areassociated together via a plurality of compressible elements such that aforce exerted on the second mesh sheet causes the second mesh sheet tobe pressed towards the first mesh sheet at a second height smaller thanthe first height; wherein the bias tape provided at each seam of theplurality of seams is sewn onto the protective material, such that thebias tape is bound to each layer of the plurality of layers via thethread passing through the bias tape and each layer of the plurality oflayers, and such that the bias tape joins a first portion of an outeredge of the plurality of outer edges to a second portion of an outeredge of the plurality of outer edges; the method comprising the stepsof: providing a pattern for construction of the repellent sleeping bag;providing the first net layer, the second net layer, and thethree-dimensional mesh layer; stacking the three-dimensional mesh layerin between the first net layer and the second net layer; cutting theprotective material into the pattern; aligning the first portion of theouter edge of the plurality of outer edges with the second portion ofthe outer edge of the plurality of outer edges; overlapping the biastape with the first portion of the outer edge of the plurality of outeredges and with the second portion of the outer edge of the plurality ofouter edges to create an overlapped layer section; seaming together theplurality of layers to the bias tape by inserting the thread into thebias tape and each layer of the plurality of layers along the overlappedlayer section. Thus, again, an advantage is that the protective materialcan help to minimize or reduce the risk of diseases transmitted by smallanimals, invertebrates, and other pests by providing a physical barrierbetween the user and the harmful pests. Another advantage is that theprotective, repellent sleeping bag may cover all parts of user's bodywhile the user is sleeping, such that exposure to pests or other harmfulmaterials such as irritants or harmful plants can be reduced. Anotheradvantage is that the elasticity of the protective material may providea degree of shock absorbance, thus reducing harm or discomfort to theuser, particularly when the bag is placed on uneven terrain. Anotheradvantage may be that the thickness of the mesh layer may help toprevent any pests, plants, irritants, or other harmful objects fromphysically reaching the skin of the user. Another advantage may be thatthe first net layer may provide the repellent suit with the appearanceof typical or standard fabric as known in the art, which may improve theease of use of the repellent sleeping bag to the user. Another advantagemay be that the breathable properties of the protective material mayensure that the user does not become too warm while inside of therepellent sleeping bag. Another advantage may be that the panel mayprovide additional breathability and visibility to the user inside ofthe repellent sleeping bag.

The above aspects or examples and advantages, as well as other aspectsor examples and advantages, will become apparent from the ensuingdescription and accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For exemplification purposes, and not for limitation purposes, aspects,embodiments or examples of the invention are illustrated in the figuresof the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIGS. 1A-1B illustrate front views of examples of a sleeping bagconstructed from protective material, or a pest-repellent protectivesleeping bag, according to an aspect.

FIG. 2A illustrates an exploded perspective view of a layered protectivematerial, with a detailed enlargement of a three-dimensional mesh layer,according to an aspect.

FIG. 2B illustrates a partial top perspective view of the repellentsleeping bag in a partially opened state, according to an aspect.

FIG. 3 illustrates a side sectional view of the protective material,showing the outer edge of the protective material, according to anaspect.

FIG. 4 illustrates the perspective view of the protective materialseamed together along portions of its outer edge using bias tape,according to an aspect.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

What follows is a description of various aspects, embodiments and/orexamples in which the invention may be practiced. Reference will be madeto the attached drawings, and the information included in the drawingsis part of this detailed description. The aspects, embodiments and/orexamples described herein are presented for exemplification purposes,and not for limitation purposes. It should be understood that structuraland/or logical modifications could be made by someone of ordinary skillsin the art without departing from the scope of the invention. Therefore,the scope of the invention is defined by the accompanying claims andtheir equivalents.

It should be understood that, for clarity of the drawings and of thespecification, some or all details about some structural components orsteps that are known in the art are not shown or described if they arenot necessary for the invention to be understood by one of ordinaryskills in the art.

For the following description, it can be assumed that mostcorrespondingly labeled elements across the figures (e.g., 101 and 401,etc.) possess the same characteristics and are subject to the samestructure and function. If there is a difference between correspondinglylabeled elements that is not pointed out, and this difference results ina non-corresponding structure or function of an element for a particularembodiment, example or aspect, then the conflicting description givenfor that particular embodiment, example or aspect shall govern.

FIGS. 1A-1B illustrate a front views of examples of a sleeping bagconstructed from protective material, or a pest-repellent protectivesleeping bag (“pest-repellent sleeping bag,” “repellent sleeping bag,”“protective sleeping bag,” or “sleeping bag”) 100, according to anaspect. As an example, the sleeping bag may be constructed similarly toa bivouac bag or sack. As shown in FIGS. 1A-1B as examples, therepellent sleeping bag 100 may be provided with a curved shape at a topend 152, which may correspond to the portion of the sleeping bag 100where a user can place their head. The curved shape may be contoured tothe shape of the user's head and thus provide comfort, coolness, andother similar benefits. The sleeping bag 100 may also be provided with astraight or flat shape at the bottom end 153, which may correspond tothe portion of the sleeping bag 100 where a user can place their feet.The flat shape at the bottom end 153 may allow the user to have morefreedom of movement while sleeping or resting inside of the repellentsleeping bag 100. The sleeping bag 100 may have a substantially flatsurface when unfilled, with a front surface and a rear surface, and mayhave an outer edge 154 having seams held with bias tape 101. It shouldbe understood that any other suitable shapes and sizes may also beprovided for the repellent sleeping bag 100.

The repellent sleeping bag 100 may be constructed to completely enclosea user within its interior. The protective material that may make up themain body 155 of the repellent sleeping bag may be breathable (as willbe discussed in further detail when referring to FIGS. 2A and 3) toallow a user to be completely enclosed within an interior space of thesleeping bag 100 while receiving sufficient air flow. To allow access tothe interior of the sleeping bag 100, the repellent sleeping bag 100 maybe provided with a closure, which may be a zipper 150. The zipper 150may be provided along a portion of the outer edge of the sleeping bag100, and may, for example, be provided at the top end 152 and a portionof outer edge 154. For example, the zipper 150 may stop approximatelyhalfway down the right outer edge 154 a. It should be understood thatany other suitable closures may also be used in combination with or inplace of a zipper 150, such as snap closures, Velcro, and so on, on anyportion of the sleeping bag. The zipper closure 150 may be advantageousby providing a snug closure preventing any pests from reaching theinterior space created when the repellent sleeping bag 100 is zipped upsuch that the repellent sleeping bag 100 is in a closed state. Anotheradvantage may be that the zipper 150 being provided on a portion of thesleeping bag's outer edge 154 may be that the sleeping bag 100 is easyfor the user to open, and easy to fully close from inside of thesleeping bag without the need to reach all the way to the bottom end153. It should also be understood that a zipper or any other closure maybe operable from inside and outside of the sleeping bag. Thus, thesleeping bag 100 may be easy and efficient for the user to use.

As shown as an example in FIG. 1A, the repellent sleeping bag 100 may beprovided with a panel (“panel,” or “window,”) 151 at the top end 152 onthe front surface, which may allow a user to easily breathe, and seeoutside of the sleeping bag 100 when enclosed within. The panel 151 mayprovide better air flow or breathability to the user positioned insidewith their face being aligned with the panel 151, by allowing more airflow than the remaining portions of the repellent sleeping bag 100. Aswill be discussed further when referring to FIGS. 2A and 3, the body 155of the sleeping bag may be constructed from a protective material havinga plurality of layers, and the panel 151 may provide better visibilityand air flow than the plurality of layers by being comprised of only asingle layer, or fewer layers than the remaining portions of therepellent sleeping bag 100. The plurality of layers of the repellentsleeping bag 100 may be held together at the seams of the repellentsleeping bag 100 by using bias tape 101, for example. It should beunderstood that the mesh or net shown as an example for the panel 151 inFIG. 1 is enlarged for visual clarity, and it should be understood thatthe panel 151 may be provided with a fine mesh or net having holes smallenough to prevent insects from passing through.

FIG. 1B shows an example of a repellent sleeping bag 100 without apanel. It should be understood that the repellent sleeping bag 100 maybe provided with no panels such as the panel 151 shown in FIG. 1A. Anadvantage may be that the user inside of the sleeping bag 100 may bebetter protected with no panel.

The bias tape 101 may be used for both seaming the plurality of layerstogether, and for stitching or seaming the protective material into thedesired shape and size of the sleeping bag. It should be understood thatany suitable pattern for a sleeping bag may be provided and used for theconstruction of the sleeping bag 100, and the protective material may becut into any suitable pattern for the making of the sleeping bag 100.

The protective or repellent material used for the construction of therepellent sleeping bag 100 may be seamed together using bias tape 101(as will be further discussed when referring to FIG. 4), such as biastape that is known in the art. The bias tape 101 may be visible from theexterior sides of the sleeping bag 100, as shown by the broken lines inFIGS. 1A-1B. The bias tape 101 may also be used for seaming the zipper150 and the panel 151 to the body of the sleeping bag 100. The bias tape101 may help the sleeping bag 100 to have better freedom of movement,elasticity, and flexibility, due to the stretchable properties of thebias tape 101. Another advantage may be that this may also help for thesleeping bag to be easy to roll or pack, and unpack. The bias tape 101may bind together the layers of the protective material (shown infurther detail in FIGS. 2A and 3) on the inner and outer seams of thebag, such as along the outer edge 154.

The protective or repellent material may provide a physical barrierbetween the user and insects, small animals, or other pests. Thus, therepellent sleeping bag constructed from the protective material may beused to protect a user while they are asleep outdoors from hazards andhealth risks such as small animal bites, stings, and also may helpprevent the user's body from making contact with parts of an animal orinsect that could be an irritant, an allergen, or otherwise toxic ordangerous, such as the proboscis, hair, and so on. The repellentsleeping bag 100 may also prevent the user from making contact withharmful portions of plants that could be nearby, such as thorns orpointy branches, or poisonous leaves. The protective material may alsoprovide some flame resistance to the user, which may be advantageous forusers who sleep or rest in the repellent sleeping bag 100 during campingor other similar activities Thus, the protective suit 100 may alsoprotect the user from minor injuries such as scratches, abrasions, andburns in addition to providing a physical barrier between the user anddisease-carrying pests.

The protective material may also help the repellent sleeping bag 100 tobe elastic, resilient, durable, and breathable. Thus, the protectivematerial may be resistant to tears or other similar damage. The sleepingbag 100 may, for example, withstand damage without breaking when placedand used on top of uneven, rocky, or otherwise harsh terrain. Anotheradvantage may be that the sleeping bag 100 may be constructed to belightweight and thus easy for a user to pack, carry, and wash.

It should be understood that any repellent sleeping bag 100 constructedusing the protective material may be tailored or customized to fit usersof a variety of shapes and sizes, and may also be provided in a varietyof colors or patterns. The repellent sleeping bag 100 may be provided inlarge sizes such that a user may sleep within the repellent sleeping bag100 with or without an additional sleeping bag or covering or isolatingmaterial, such as a standard sleeping bag as known in the art, forexample. An advantage may be that the user may be provided withadditional warmth or comfort as needed. It should be understood that therepellent sleeping bag 100 may also be provided with other accessoriesor pieces such as pockets or other gear, as may be required by a user'sprofession, hobby, or activity. The protective material may also beprovided with the appearance of any suitable standard fabric, forexample. As an example, the repellent sleeping bag 100 may be providedwith a camouflage pattern which may be advantageous for users sleepingoutdoors for military or other similar purposes. As another example, therepellent sleeping bag 100 may be provided with any other suitablecolors or patterns, which may be advantageous to allow users to chooseany appearance of the sleeping bag 100 to suit their needs oractivities.

The repellent sleeping bag 100 constructed as disclosed may allow a userto avoid harsh chemical repellents by providing the user with analternative to such harsh chemical repellents. Additionally, because therepellent sleeping bag 100 may work by physically repelling smallinvertebrates without relying on chemical repellents, the repellentsleeping bag 100 may continue to function for the duration of the timethe user is sleeping or resting, which may be advantageous over achemical repellent that may decrease in efficacy or wear off over time.

FIG. 2A illustrates an exploded perspective view of a layered protectivematerial (“layered protective material,” “protective material,” or“repellent material”) 230, with a detailed enlargement 234 of athree-dimensional mesh layer 232, according to an aspect. The protectivematerial 230 may have three layers that may be sewn together orotherwise provided together to create a physical barrier between theuser and disease-carrying vectors and other harmful elements. As isshown in further detail in FIGS. 3 and 4, the three layers of theprotective material 230 may be stacked together in the order shown, thensewn or seamed together using bias tape and thread. When the pluralityof layers of the protective material 230 are stacked together, eachlayer may be visible along the outer edges of the protective material230. Examples of the outer edge of the protective material are shown infurther detail and in FIGS. 3 and 4. The three layers of the protectivematerial may thus provide a physical barrier to protect the user frominsects or other invertebrates that may carry harmful illnesses (such asZika, malaria, Dengue fever, and so on). As an example, the entirety ofthe repellent sleeping bag (as shown by 100 in FIG. 1) may beconstructed from the layered protective material.

The three layers of the protective material 230 may be a net layer (“netlayer,” “first net layer,” or “external net layer,”) 231, athree-dimensional (“3D”) mesh layer (“3D mesh layer,” “3D air mesh,” “3Dknitted mesh,” or “mesh layer”) 232, and a comfort fabric layer(“comfort fabric layer,” “second net layer,” “inner fabric layer,”“internal fabric layer,” or “fabric layer”) 233. Again, it should beunderstood that the mesh or netting shown as an examples for the firstnet layer 231 and the second net layer 233 is enlarged for visualclarity, and it should be understood that the protective material layersmay be provided with a fine mesh or netting having holes small enough toprevent insects from passing through. It should be understood that the3D mesh layer 232 may also be fine enough to prevent most types ofinsects and other pests from passing through.

Again, the three layers of the protective material 230 may be joined,sewn, or seamed together in any suitable fashion, such as in the exampledepicted in FIG. 3. The 3D mesh 232 may be woven or knitted, and may beelastic, and breathable, and resilient such that when a force is appliedand next removed from the 3D mesh, the 3D mesh may return to itsoriginal or natural shape. The 3D mesh may have a first mesh sheet 232a, which may be on the external-facing side (“first side,” or “firstsurface,”) of the protective material 230, and may have a second meshsheet 232 b, which may be on a second internal-facing side (“secondside,” or “second surface,”). The first mesh sheet 232 a and the secondmesh sheet 232 b may be associated together with a plurality ofcompressible elements 232 c. Both the first side and the second side ofthe 3D mesh 232 may be covered with a net layer. Thus, a protectivematerial may be created by a layer of 3D air mesh 232 as known in theart, covered on each surface, which may be the exterior and theinterior, by a net layer. On the external first side may be a first netlayer, and on the internal second side, which may be worn against theuser's skin, may be a second net layer. As an example, each of the netlayers (first net layer and second net layer) may be constructed fromthe same material. It should be understood that the materials used forthe construction of the first net layer 231 and the second net layer 233may be different according to a user's needs.

The net layer (“first net layer” or “external net layer”) 231 may be theoutermost layer when the protective material is used to construct therepellent sleeping bag or any other similar item. The net layer 231 maybe thin, flexible, and impermeable to small animals and invertebrates,and thus, insects and other pests may be prevented from passing throughthe net layer 231. The net layer 231 may be constructed from anysuitable elastic net material. The provided holes in the net layer 231may be approximately 0.08 mm-1 mm, which may be sufficiently largeenough to provide air ventilation to a user while being small enough toprevent pests from crawling through and reaching the skin of the user.

The 3D mesh layer 232 may be the middle layer of the three layers of theprotective material 230. The 3D mesh layer may provide an additionallevel of protection against insects and other pests, such that they donot come into contact with the user's skin, by providing a physicaldistance between the user and the exterior of the protective material230. The mesh layer 232 can provide a secondary defense against pests,but may also serve as a first line of defense should any damage occur tothe net layer 231, for example. As shown in the detailed enlargement 234of a portion of the 3D mesh layer 232, the mesh layer 232 may be raisedand have a rounded or substantially three-dimensional shape andthickness created, such that the mesh layer 232 is substantially notflat, by, again, having two wire mesh sheets 232 a and 232 b connectedby wire fibers or any other suitable plurality of compressible elements232 c to interweave the two mesh sheets, as is known in the art. Thus,when the protective material 230 is worn by or placed around a user by,for example, being constructed into a repellent sleeping bag (shown by100 in FIG. 1), the physical barriers created by the protective material230 may be created. The first mesh sheet 232 a may be raised to a firstheight above the second mesh sheet 232 b, due to the biasing of thecompressible elements 232 c holding the first mesh sheet 232 a. Thus,the first mesh sheet 232 a may be raised to a first height above theuser's skin when the protective material is 230 is worn. The 3D meshlayer 232 may provide shock absorbance to the protective material, andalso elasticity. For example, when a force is applied to the first meshsheet 232 a, the first mesh sheet 232 a may be pushed down to a secondheight, which is closer to the second mesh sheet 232 b than the firstheight. When the force is removed, the second mesh sheet 232 a may bebiased to return to the first height.

The thickness of the 3D mesh layer 232, which may be determined by thefirst height of the first mesh sheet 232 a raised above the second meshsheet 232 b, may be provided such that any insect resting on top of themesh layer is raised too high above the user to be able to reach theskin of the user. Thus, the thickness and shape of the mesh layer 232may help to prevent insect bites. The thickness of the mesh layer 232can also improve breathability of the protective material 230, byraising the distance between the layers of the protective material andpromoting air circulation. The plurality of compressible elements 232 cbetween each mesh sheet may provide flexibility, elasticity, resiliency,and shock absorbing properties to the protective suit, for example.

Each component of the mesh layer 232 may also be constructed to beelastic and flexible, which may also help to provide shock absorbentproperties to the protective material 230. The elasticity and resilienceof the mesh layer 232 may help the mesh layer 232 to maintain its shape.The mesh layer 232 may as an example show the Poisson effect, bycollapsing when compressed, and may recover to its natural state, shapeor form after the compression is removed. As an example, the 3D mesh 232may be constructed from polyethylene, or any other suitable materials.

Finally, the innermost layer may be a comfort fabric layer (“comfortfabric layer,” or “second net layer”) 233, for example. The second netlayer 233 may provide comfort to the user. prevent a wearer's skin frombecoming irritated from continuously rubbing against the mesh layer 232.It should be understood that the comfort fabric layer 233 may beconstructed from the same material as the net layer 231 and thus may bea second net layer 233.

Thus, a three-layered protective material 230 may provide a user withmultiple layers of protection against harmful infections, poisoning,and/or diseases transmitted via small invertebrates and against smallcuts and/or abrasions caused by plants or rocks. Additionally, thethree-layer construction disclosed above may have the additional benefitof more easily circulating air than a single thicker layer whileproviding protection to the user by creating a distance between theuser's body and the exterior of the protective material 230. Thus, arepellent sleeping bag (shown by 100 in FIGS. 1A-1B) may help a user tosay cool in hot climates while being protected from pests. It should benoted that a protective material 230 with fewer or more than threelayers may be used to construct a protective repellent sleeping bag. Forexample, if a user lives in an area that has a cold climate at times,such as in a desert environment at nighttime, a fourth insulating layermay be provided to assist a user in keeping warm.

FIG. 2B illustrates a partial top perspective view of the repellentsleeping bag 200 in a partially opened state, according to an aspect.While in the opened state, wherein the zipper 250 is unzipped, theinterior surface 255 a of the repellent sleeping bag main body 255 maybe visible. The exterior surface 255 b of the repellent sleeping bag isalso visible in this view. With the exception of the panel 251, thesleeping bag 200 may be constructed such that all surfaces are made ofthe same material, which may be the protective material shown by 230 inFIG. 2A. As an example, the protective material shown by 230 in FIG. 2Amay also be doubled. As an example, the sleeping bag 200 may beconstructed from a single piece of the protective material being foldedon itself. As another example, the sleeping bag 200 may be constructedfrom a plurality of pieces of the protective material seamed together.Each piece of the protective material 230 may have the first net layer231 on the exterior surface 255 b, followed by the mesh layer 232, andnext the second net layer 233 on the interior surface 255 a. The secondnet layer 233 on the interior surface 255 a is shown in a partial view,for visual clarity, and it should be understood that all portions of themesh layer 232 may be covered in both the first net layer 231 and thesecond net layer 233. Again for visual clarity, no other layers arevisible underneath the mesh layer 232 in FIG. 2B; however, it should beunderstood that all layers of the protective material 230 may be usedstacked together and shown and described when referring to FIG. 2A forthe construction of the sleeping bag main body 255.

The panel 251 may be constructed from a single layer, which may be, forexample, the first net layer 231. The material used to construct thepanel 251 may be the same or similar material as the material used forthe first net layer 231 and the second net layer 233. To more clearlyindicate the presence of the panel 251 and to distinguish the panel 251within the bag 200, the main body 255 in FIG. 2B is not shown with themesh detail; however, it should be understood that the exterior surface255 b of the main body 255 may also be covered in the first net layer231. Thus, the sleeping bag 200 may be constructed from a firstprotective material (as shown by 230 in FIG. 2A) and a second protectivematerial, a single layer of the first net layer 231, wherein the mainbody 255 is constructed from the first protective material, and thepanel 251 is constructed from the second protective material. Again, aswas previously discussed, it should be understood that a repellentsleeping bag 200 may be constructed without a panel.

Again, it should be understood that the mesh netting used for the firstnet layer 231 and the mesh layer 232 may be small in order to preventinsects and other pests from passing through, and is shown in FIGS.2A-2B in an enlarged detail for visual clarity. Additionally, the 3Dmesh 232 may be thick enough to prevent pests from being able to reachthe user's body.

When the repellent sleeping bag 200 is folded, the 3D mesh layer 232 andsecond net layer 233 may be visible through the panel 251 (not shownthrough the panel 251 in FIG. 2B for visual clarity). The panel 251 maybe seamed to the main body 255 via bias tape 201, and the bias tape 201may be seamed or sewn onto the layers of the protective material usingthread, for example. Similarly, the zipper 250 may be seamed or sewnonto the sleeping bag's outer edge 254.

FIG. 3 illustrates a side sectional view of the protective material 330,showing the outer edge 336 of the protective material 330, according toan aspect. As disclosed above, a protective material 330 may have threelayers: a net layer 331, a mesh layer 332, and a comfort fabric layer333. The three layers may be held together with thread 334 and bias tape(as shown by 401 b in FIG. 4). As is known to those of ordinary skill inthe art, the thread 334 may be stitched through the three layers, suchas by using a needle 335, and the bias tape (shown by 401 in FIG. 4)such that the protective material 330 is flexible, elastic andstretchable. Any appropriate type of thread may be sued to assemble thethree layers of the protective material. As an example, cotton thread,elastic thread, or synthetic thread may be used. Machine sewing orknitting may be used for the seaming, or, as another example, a needle335 may be to used with the thread 334 to achieve the seaming. It shouldbe noted that other appropriate methods, such as machine sewing, may beused to assemble the three layers of the protective material.

Additionally, the assembly method disclosed hereinabove (loose stitchand thread method) may be used at the seams of the suit. In other words,a loose stitch may be used to attach the different components ofsleeping bag with bias tape at the seams. Thus, the suit may be flexibleand allow a user a larger range of motion.

It should be understood that the three layers of the protective material330 may be joined, sewn or seamed together only on the bias of thefabric. An advantage is that, should the fabrics be joined in anothermanner, the protective material 330 may become compressed, which maycause the repellent properties of the material to be reduced; thus,joining on the bias preserves the repellent properties of the material330. Another advantage is that flexibility of the three layers is alsopreserved to help prevent damage to the user such as from scratches frombranches or other hazards, and so on, by only joining the fabrics on thebias. It should also be understood that any suitable method of sewing orseaming may be used to attach pockets, straps, buckles, or other similargear or additions to the suit.

FIG. 4 illustrates the perspective view of the protective material 430seamed together along portions of its outer edge using bias tape 401,according to an aspect. In order to create the shape of a repellentsleeping bag (as shown by 100 in FIG. 1) or any other item to be used asa physical, protective barrier between pests and a user, the protectivematerial 430 may be cut and sewn into a desired or predetermined shapeor pattern. The outer edge of the protective material (as shown by 336in FIG. 3) may be joined to the outer edge of another piece ofprotective material, as an example. As shown in FIG. 4 as anotherexample, a first portion of an outer edge 436 a of a protective material430 may be joined to a second portion of an outer edge 436 b of the sameprotective material 430. The joining or seaming together may be done byusing bias tape 401, and the bias tape 401 may be attached to theplurality of layers of the protective material 430 (shown by the firstnet layer 431, mesh layer 432, and the second net layer 433). Again aspreviously discussed, as an example, bias tape, shown by 401 b, may bestitched around the three layers. The stitches created by the thread 434are shown by 439 as an example, such that the bias tape 401 b enclosesthe plurality of layers, such as the portions of the outer edgerepresented by 436 a and 436 b. Edges that are not connected with anyother portions of the suit may be covered in this manner, for example.It should be understood that the perspective view shown in FIG. 4,wherein the outer edge of the protective material is visible, may becovered in bias tape entirely, and is shown in FIG. 4 only partiallycovered with bias tape 401 b for visual clarity such that the layers maybe visible.

It should be understood that portions of the outer edge 436 a and 436 bmay be seamed with the bias tape 401, or all outer edges of theprotective material 430 may be seamed with the bias tape 401. Again asan example, all outer edges of the protective material 430 may be seamedup using the bias tape 401 such that the mesh layer 432 is enclosed bythe first net layer 431, the second net layer 433, and the bias tape 401and 401 b. In order to seam the outer edges of the protective material,the bias tape 401 may overlap all of the outer edges that are to beseamed together, such as the portions of the outer edge represented by436 a and 436 b. This may create overlapped layer sections, as can beseen in FIG. 4 as an example. Next, the seams of the repellent sleepingbag may be created by inserting the thread into all layers of theplurality of layers and the bias tape along the overlapped layersections. This may be performed according to any suitable sleeping bagpattern or bivouac sack pattern, or any other garment or gear makingmethod, for example. Other steps may follow in order to make theprotective or repellent sleeping bag, such as by adding the zipperclosure, for example, or pockets, or any other suitable gear.

It may be advantageous to set forth definitions of certain words andphrases used in this patent document. The term “couple” and itsderivatives refer to any direct or indirect communication between two ormore elements, whether or not those elements are in physical contactwith one another. The term “or” is inclusive, meaning and/or. Thephrases “associated with” and “associated therewith,” as well asderivatives thereof, may mean to include, be included within,interconnect with, contain, be contained within, connect to or with,couple to or with, be communicable with, cooperate with, interleave,juxtapose, be proximate to, be bound to or with, have, have a propertyof, or the like.

Further, as used in this application, “plurality” means two or more. A“set” of items may include one or more of such items. Whether in thewritten description or the claims, the terms “comprising,” “including,”“carrying,” “having,” “containing,” “involving,” and the like are to beunderstood to be open-ended, i.e., to mean including but not limited to.Only the transitional phrases “consisting of” and “consistingessentially of,” respectively, are closed or semi-closed transitionalphrases with respect to claims.

If present, use of ordinal terms such as “first,” “second,” “third,”etc., in the claims to modify a claim element does not by itself connoteany priority, precedence or order of one claim element over another orthe temporal order in which acts of a method are performed. These termsare used merely as labels to distinguish one claim element having acertain name from another element having a same name (but for use of theordinal term) to distinguish the claim elements. As used in thisapplication, “and/or” means that the listed items are alternatives, butthe alternatives also include any combination of the listed items.

Throughout this description, the aspects, embodiments or examples shownshould be considered as exemplars, rather than limitations on theapparatus or procedures disclosed or claimed. Although some of theexamples may involve specific combinations of method acts or systemelements, it should be understood that those acts and those elements maybe combined in other ways to accomplish the same objectives.

Acts, elements and features discussed only in connection with oneaspect, embodiment or example are not intended to be excluded from asimilar role(s) in other aspects, embodiments or examples.

Aspects, embodiments or examples of the invention may be described asprocesses, which are usually depicted using a flowchart, a flow diagram,a structure diagram, or a block diagram. Although a flowchart may depictthe operations as a sequential process, many of the operations can beperformed in parallel or concurrently. In addition, the order of theoperations may be re-arranged. With regard to flowcharts, it should beunderstood that additional and fewer steps may be taken, and the stepsas shown may be combined or further refined to achieve the describedmethods.

If means-plus-function limitations are recited in the claims, the meansare not intended to be limited to the means disclosed in thisapplication for performing the recited function, but are intended tocover in scope any equivalent means, known now or later developed, forperforming the recited function.

If any presented, the claims directed to a method and/or process shouldnot be limited to the performance of their steps in the order written,and one skilled in the art can readily appreciate that the sequences maybe varied and still remain within the spirit and scope of the presentinvention.

Although aspects, embodiments and/or examples have been illustrated anddescribed herein, someone of ordinary skills in the art will easilydetect alternate of the same and/or equivalent variations, which may becapable of achieving the same results, and which may be substituted forthe aspects, embodiments and/or examples illustrated and describedherein, without departing from the scope of the invention. Therefore,the scope of this application is intended to cover such alternateaspects, embodiments and/or examples. Hence, the scope of the inventionis defined by the accompanying claims and their equivalents. Further,each and every claim is incorporated as further disclosure into thespecification.

What is claimed is:
 1. A repellent sleeping bag constructed from a firstprotective material and a second protective material, the repellentsleeping bag comprising: a main body having: a front surface; a rearsurface; a left side; a right side; a top end having a rounded shape; abottom end having a flat shape; and a sleeping bag outer edge having aclosure; wherein the main body defines an interior space; a panel withinthe front surface at the top end; a plurality of seams connecting thefront surface to the rear surface, the sleeping bag outer edge to theclosure, and the panel to the front surface; bias tape at the pluralityof seams; and thread sewing the bias tape to the plurality of seams;wherein the main body is constructed from the first protective material,and the panel is constructed from the second protective material; thefirst protective material comprising: a plurality of layers; and aplurality of outer edges; the plurality of layers being breathable, andbeing joined together via the bias tape along the plurality of outeredges, and the plurality of layers comprising: a first net layer; asecond net layer; and a three-dimensional mesh layer between the firstnet layer and the second net layer, the three-dimensional mesh layercomprising a first mesh sheet and a second mesh sheet raised to a firstheight above the first mesh sheet; wherein the first mesh sheet and thesecond mesh sheet are associated together via a plurality ofcompressible elements such that a force exerted on the second mesh sheetcauses the second mesh sheet to be pressed towards the first mesh sheetat a second height smaller than the first height; the second protectivematerial comprising: the first net layer; and a plurality of secondprotective material outer edges; wherein the plurality of seams occur onbiases of each layer of the first protective material and the secondprotective material; wherein the bias tape provided at each seam of theplurality of seams is sewn onto the first protective material or thesecond protective material, such that the bias tape is bound to eachlayer of the plurality of layers or the first net layer via the threadpassing through the bias tape and each layer of the plurality of layersof the first protective material or the first net layer of the secondprotective material, and such that the bias tape joins a first portionof an outer edge of the plurality of outer edges to a second portion ofan outer edge of the plurality of outer edges; and such that the biastape joins the plurality of second protective material outer edges tothe front surface.
 2. The repellent sleeping bag of claim 1, wherein thethree-dimensional mesh layer is enclosed by the first net layer, thesecond net layer, and the bias tape.
 3. The repellent sleeping bag ofclaim 1, wherein the closure comprises a zipper.
 4. The repellentsleeping bag of claim 1, wherein the closure is on the top end, theright side, and the bottom end of the sleeping bag outer edge.
 5. Therepellent sleeping bag of claim 1, wherein the closure is operable fromthe interior space.
 6. A repellent sleeping bag constructed from aprotective material, the repellent sleeping bag comprising: a main bodyhaving: a front surface; a rear surface; a left side; a right side; atop end; a bottom end having a flat shape; and a sleeping bag outer edgehaving a closure; wherein the main body defines an interior space; aplurality of seams connecting the front surface to the rear surface, andthe sleeping bag outer edge to the closure; bias tape at the pluralityof seams; and thread sewing the bias tape to the plurality of seams;wherein the main body is constructed from the protective material; theprotective material comprising: a plurality of layers; and a pluralityof outer edges; the plurality of layers being breathable, and beingjoined together via the bias tape along the plurality of outer edges,and the plurality of layers comprising: a first net layer; a second netlayer; and a three-dimensional mesh layer between the first net layerand the second net layer, the three-dimensional mesh layer comprising afirst mesh sheet and a second mesh sheet raised to a first height abovethe first mesh sheet; wherein the first mesh sheet and the second meshsheet are associated together via a plurality of compressible elementssuch that a force exerted on the second mesh sheet causes the secondmesh sheet to be pressed towards the first mesh sheet at a second heightsmaller than the first height; wherein the bias tape provided at eachseam of the plurality of seams is sewn onto the protective material,such that the bias tape is bound to each layer of the plurality oflayers via the thread passing through the bias tape and each layer ofthe plurality of layers, and such that the bias tape joins a firstportion of an outer edge of the plurality of outer edges to a secondportion of an outer edge of the plurality of outer edges.
 7. Therepellent sleeping bag of claim 6, wherein the top end further comprisesa rounded shape.
 8. The repellent sleeping bag of claim 6, wherein thethree-dimensional mesh layer is enclosed by the first net layer, thesecond net layer, and the bias tape.
 9. The repellent sleeping bag ofclaim 6, wherein the closure comprises a zipper.
 10. The repellentsleeping bag of claim 6, wherein the closure is operable from theinterior space.
 11. The repellent sleeping bag of claim 6, wherein theclosure is on the top end, the right side, and the bottom end of thesleeping bag outer edge.
 12. A method of making a repellent sleeping bagconstructed from a protective material, the repellent sleeping bagcomprising: a main body having: a front surface; a rear surface; a leftside; a right side; a top end; a bottom end having a flat shape; and asleeping bag outer edge having a closure; wherein the main body definesan interior space; a plurality of seams connecting the front surface tothe rear surface, and the sleeping bag outer edge to the closure; biastape at the plurality of seams; and thread sewing the bias tape to theplurality of seams; wherein the main body is constructed from theprotective material; the protective material comprising: a plurality oflayers; and a plurality of outer edges; the plurality of layers beingbreathable, and being joined together via the bias tape along theplurality of outer edges, and the plurality of layers comprising: afirst net layer; a second net layer; and a three-dimensional mesh layerbetween the first net layer and the second net layer, thethree-dimensional mesh layer comprising a first mesh sheet and a secondmesh sheet raised to a first height above the first mesh sheet; whereinthe first mesh sheet and the second mesh sheet are associated togethervia a plurality of compressible elements such that a force exerted onthe second mesh sheet causes the second mesh sheet to be pressed towardsthe first mesh sheet at a second height smaller than the first height;wherein the bias tape provided at each seam of the plurality of seams issewn onto the protective material, such that the bias tape is bound toeach layer of the plurality of layers via the thread passing through thebias tape and each layer of the plurality of layers, and such that thebias tape joins a first portion of an outer edge of the plurality ofouter edges to a second portion of an outer edge of the plurality ofouter edges; the method comprising the steps of: providing a pattern forconstruction of the repellent sleeping bag; providing the first netlayer, the second net layer, and the three-dimensional mesh layer;stacking the three-dimensional mesh layer in between the first net layerand the second net layer; cutting the protective material into thepattern; aligning the first portion of the outer edge of the pluralityof outer edges with the second portion of the outer edge of theplurality of outer edges; overlapping the bias tape with the firstportion of the outer edge of the plurality of outer edges and with thesecond portion of the outer edge of the plurality of outer edges tocreate an overlapped layer section; seaming together the plurality oflayers to the bias tape by inserting the thread into the bias tape andeach layer of the plurality of layers along the overlapped layersection.
 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the three-dimensional meshlayer is enclosed by the first net layer, the second net layer, and thebias tape.
 14. The method of claim 12, wherein the closure comprises azipper.
 15. The method of claim 14, further comprising the step of:attaching a zipper to the closure.
 16. The method of claim 12, furthercomprising a second protective material comprising: the first net layer;and a plurality of second protective material outer edges.
 17. Themethod of claim 16, wherein the repellent sleeping bag further comprisesa panel within the front surface at the top end, wherein the panel isconstructed from the second protective material.
 18. The method of claim16, further comprising the step of: attaching the panel to the frontsurface at the top end.
 19. The method of claim 12, wherein the closureis on the top end, the right side, and the bottom end of the sleepingbag outer edge.
 20. The method of claim 12, wherein the closure isoperable from the interior space.